Hyssop, Blue | provenceartantiques

Name

Botanical Name

Family

Native to

Water

Sun

Soil

Height

Width

Space

Blue Hyssop

Hyssopus officinalis

Lamiaceae

South and Eastern Europe; and Central Asia

Dry to Medium (mesic)

Full sun with part shade in the afternoon

Moderately fertile, requires well-drained

24-48"

18-24"

Price

4" Pot: $2.20

6" Pot: $3.50

Terracotta Pots and other planters:

Prices Vary

Description

A semi-evergreen plant with a rounded habit. the stems are woody at the base with small dark green leaves. Deep blue flower spikes appear in late summer.

Keeping it Going

Hyssop needs well-drained to dry soil and a sunny location.
It is low maintenance once established
Can be trimmed to any height during growing season
Can cut back to the ground in the early to mid-Spring
One application of high quality compost of other low-nitrogen fertilizer in mid-late fall.
Will spread with rhizomes and re-seeding

Won't Tolerate

Wet, poorly drained soil

History

& Points of Interest

Native to South and Eastern Europe and Central Asia. It typically grows on dry, rocky soils.
the ancient name "hyssopos" comes from Greek and is virtually the same in all European languages. In Hebrew, it is called, "ezob," meaning, "holy herb". It is found in ancient texts that date back at least as far as Hippocrates.
Lamiaceae: mint family
Uses: Medicinal and culinary
Medicinal: Hyssop is used to make infusions for coughs, colds and chest infections
Culinary: Tastes like a mix between mint, sage and oregano. Leaves are used to flavor soups and meat dishes. Flavor is strong. use with discretion.
Parts used: Leaves and flowers -fresh or dried
Dishes cooked with hyssop were popular during the Elizabethan era; One of the original ingredients in the liqueur, Chartreuse.
Very attractive to butterflies, beneficial insects, and hummingbirds
Garden design: Rock gardens, herb gardens, clip for a low hedge, and containers